Maria Sharapova pulls out of BNP Paribas Open

Maria Sharapova announced she is withdrawing from next week's BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells due to the left forearm injury she has been battling all season.

The seventh-ranked Sharapova hasn't played since losing to Serena Williams in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open in late January. She was hoping to make her return at the event located close in proximity to her homer in Southern California.

"I am extremely disappointed that I am unable to compete in this year's BNP Paribas Open," Sharapova said in a statement. "I have been focused on healing my left forearm injury and tried to get my body to be 100 percent ready to play this event, as it is one of my favorites on the WTA and so close to my home in L.A.

"I know the tournament will be a great success this year and I will be anxious to return next year and hopefully many years after."

Sharapova is a two-time champion at Indian Wells, winning in 2006 and 2013.